Implants are used to replace missing teeth. They can replace teeth one at a time or many teeth at once.

Types of implants:

1) single teeth implant: replaces one tooth

2) implant bridge: 2 implants than a bridge

3) overdenture: at least two implants that a denture snaps onto

4) all-on-four: a denture is attached to four implants

Single tooth implants are composed of 3 parts:

1) the implant itself: it is surgically placed in the bone

2) the abutment: it is attached to the implant. It looks like a tooth that has been prepared for a crown

3) the crown

Typically, surgery is performed to place the implant. The mouth then heals for 3-6 months before the implant is “loaded”, meaning teeth are placed on the implant.